Massage: Rest, relax, renew
Massage therapy has an array of benefits. Massage promotes healthy circulation, increases range of motion, enhances immunity, lowers blood pressure, reduces stress and shortens healing time for injuries. We offer numerous massage modalities designed to relax the mind and body and contribute to overall physical and functional wellness. In each massage appointment, we will assess the areas of focus and customize the visit to your individual needs.
Massages can be booked in one hour or hour and a half increments.
Massage therapy we offer
Releasing the muscles and connective tissue
This popular and versatile massage focuses on increasing recovery rates of muscular injuries, fixing muscular imbalances, and relieving chronic pain. Soft tissue release is a popular form of therapy among athletes as it is a quick and effective way of achieving strength and flexibility after muscular injuries. This integrated movement technique helps to correct muscular imbalances, including areas that have been injured or have scar tissue and adhesion. The provider and patient work together to establish the ideal pressure in each session to allow for optimal relaxation and therapeutic relief.
Swedish massage: Whole body relaxation
This popular massage focuses on relaxing the entire body for stress reduction and restoration. Swedish massage is accomplished by rubbing the muscles with long, smooth and gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart. But this massage therapy goes beyond relaxation. Swedish massage is exceptionally beneficial for increasing the level of oxygen in the blood, decreasing muscle toxins, improving circulation and flexibility while easing tension.
Hot Stone massage
Hot stone massage is the practice of heating smooth stones to a comfortably warm temperature, and placing them on various areas of the body during the massage. Though there are different types, the most commonly used stones are made of basalt, a type of volcanic rock that retains heat.
The current application of stone therapy used in Western massage treatments is derived most likely from China, where they were used as a means of improving the function of internal organs. Their use has been observed in different other cultures throughout history – such as the Americas, Africa, Europe, and India – as part of religious ceremonies and with the intention of healing ailments.
The therapist may place the stones along the spine and limbs, targeting tense muscle groups. If used to massage, they may be coated in oil and used to glide along the skin. Depending on the size of the stone, they may also be used to provide acupressure to trigger points.
The stones are really just a pleasant and convenient vehicle to provide heat to the body. Heat causes the blood vessels to dilate, allowing for more oxygen and nutrients to be delivered to the affected muscle. This promotes healing, and soothes pain in the tissue. Heat also decreases stiffness in the back by facilitating the stretching of soft tissue around the spine.
Engaging the fascia
This type of bodywork focuses on the connective tissue, or fascia, of the body. Fascia is elastic by nature and is designed to move and slide freely with the muscles, bones, and movements of the body. Injuries, stress, repetitive movements, poor posture and aging can all cause fascia to become stiff, dense, and lose its elasticity. Improperly tensioned fascia pulls our bodies out of proper alignment. Structural integration is the process of lengthening, softening, and freeing the fascia to allow the body to move with ease and restore postural balance. The process is a ten session series that systematically loosens and restructures the tension system of the body. Each session builds upon the last, addressing different layers of tissue throughout the process. The series is designed to balance your body in segments, with each session addressing a different aspect of your structure and movement. As the body comes back into alignment with gravity, it has far more resources to dedicate to healing and overall energy.
Pregnancy massage
A pregnancy massage is performed with consideration for the special needs of a pregnant person. This massage relieves the tensions and aches caused by the extra weight and shift in the center of gravity to the body. It also reduces swelling, soothes the nervous system, reduces fatigue, and enhances energy. We utilize a variety of pillows and cushions specially designed for ideal comfort and safety in our pregnancy massages.
Intra-oral jaw massage
Intraoral Jaw Massage can be effective for those with TMJ, clicking jaw, limited range of motion with opening the mouth, headaches, pain from grinding, and even ringing in the ear. During a one hour session, you can expect to have about 20 minutes of massage done to either side of the jaw (this can vary depending on tolerance), as well as time spent on the muscles of the neck, shoulders, and face. During the intra-oral part of the session, the provider will wear a glove and work slowly and gently on the muscles inside of the face and jaw. Patients generally report a feeling of relaxation and increased range of motion after even one treatment, and neck and shoulder tension are likely to lessen as well. 90 minute sessions are also available for people who would like more time.
Moist heat muscle relief
In comparison with dry heat, such as microwave heat packs and most electrical heat pads, moist heat can penetrate the skin faster and deeper and patients report a greater relief of symptoms. Heat is very effective in treating common problems such as stiffness, pain, trigger points, reduced range of motion, and cramps. Moist heat may be used during any of our massages based on the needs of each patient and evaluation by the provider.
Testimonials
“This place is AMAZING! I was doing a combination of acupuncture and massage for a while to help with back pain and it really worked. All of the massage therapists are exceptional and it is always the best massage I have ever had. I feel like going anywhere else is a waste of money. The acupuncture is also very effective here, which I have not found at other clinics. I would HIGHLY recommend Therapia!”
“Therapia got me back into shape after completing my first full marathon. Both did an amazing job and were very professional. This is my new local spot for any acupuncture or massage needs. Thanks team!!!!”
“This place is wonderful! They were able to fit me in at the last minute and I received without question the best massage of my life. Everyone was courteous and professional. The clinic is clean and inviting. I have already booked my next appointment.”
“I have been visiting Therapia for several months now and between acupuncture, massage and chiropractic treatments my battered body is moving in ways it has not in years.”
“I am a nurse at OHSU and suffer from persistent frequent migraines and shoulder pain. After 2 months of regular massages at Therapia, my shoulders have been feeling so much stronger and I have not had a migraine in over a month. My coworkers and I have them on speed dial, plus they take our insurance and have the nicest office staff as well!”